Let me preface what I'm about to say: I like Nate, I think he's a good coach and I don't have a problem with him right now. But after watching Porter's retirement the other night it got me to thinking that his run in Phoenix is probably going to be cut short if the Suns don't make it to the promised land. Anyway, what would people think of TP as the Blazers coach should Nate step down at some point or otherwise leave the team? Personally I realize the thought is only popping into my head because of sentimentality, and there would be some potentially tricky waters to navigate should he struggle (how do you fire a coach whose number is hanging in the rafters?) but it would be intriguing. So take it with a grain of salt, I'm mostly just putting out there as a topic of conversation -- this to see what people think, not a mandate for change.
Interesting question.. but I think you'd get similar type of coaches if you replaced Nate with TP. Both emphasize defense, both like to not play up tempo too much, and both are generally players' coaches. But I think Nate has a better reputation in the league for player development, while Porter hasn't really established a reputation yet. You can't really get one after coaching a crappy Milwaukee franchise. As much as I love TP as a player, I don't see him getting many chances in the league if the gig in Phoenix doesn't work out while I bet teams would be more willing to try to get Nate if he were available.
Why would he step down? He is coaching a young team, most of whom this is the only team and coach they have ever had in the NBA. He has the power to shape them however he wants, they are up and coming. Why is this even being discussed? As for Porter he seems to give mixed signals to his players. I don't want that on a young team, the vets in phoenix are having enough problems with it as it is.
